The Crucial Role of Elayne: How Her Arrival Shapes 6 Key Characters in the Wheel of Time
Discover the profound impact of Elayne's introduction on six pivotal characters in the Wheel of Time series Delve into the transformative effects on Gawyn Trakand, Queen Morgase Trakand, Galad Damodred, Elaida, Gareth Byrne, and Martyn Tallanvor A must-read exploration of the interconnectedness in this epic fantasy saga
Warning: Spoilers for The Wheel of Time season 2, episodes 1-3
Summary
Elayne's introduction in season 2 of The Wheel of Time has significant ramifications for several other characters in the books, altering their storylines and relationships.
In the TV series, characters such as Gawyn Trakand, Queen Morgase Trakand, Galad Damodred, Elaida, Gareth Byrne, and Martyn Tallanvor may be portrayed differently compared to their depiction in the books.
Removing certain events from the books, such as Rand and Elayne's initial meeting, can have a significant impact on the development of relationships and the overall storyline of the show.
The introduction of Elayne Trakand in season 2 of The Wheel of Time has major consequences for six other characters from the books. Portrayed by Ceara Covenay, Elayne finally made her highly anticipated debut in season 2, episode 2 titled "Strangers and Friends." Just like her literary counterpart in The Great Hunt, Elayne becomes part of Nynaeve al'Meara and Egwene al'Vere's journey by joining the White Tower as a novice.
Gawyn Trakand
Elayne's emergence as a new friend to Egwene and her potential to assist her struggles at the White Tower in The Wheel of Time season 2 highlights a deviation from the original timeline presented in Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time books. Despite making her first appearance in The Eye of the World, where she encountered Rand at the Andorian palace, the current portrayal of Elayne already being at the White Tower implies that this entire storyline cannot unfold. This creative decision not only impacts Rand and Elayne's relationship but also alters how viewers will be introduced to several other characters.
When Elayne first appeared in The Eye of the World, her brother Gawyn Trakand also made his debut. Throughout the series, Gawyn eventually became Egwene's main romantic interest. Known for his amicable nature and as a trusted ally to Elayne, Gawyn stood by her when she fought for Rand's freedom after he was taken captive by the palace guards. Unlike the others who met Rand, Gawyn displayed an instant kindness towards him and had unwavering faith in his sister's instincts. This portrayal established Gawyn as a beloved hero in the books.
Queen Morgase Trakand
Gawyn's return to the White Tower in The Great Hunt provided an opportunity for him to reconnect with Elayne, the place where he initially met Egwene. In a similar fashion to the way the show portrayed Elayne, The Wheel of Time could use this encounter to establish the foundation of their romance. Nevertheless, this approach would still deviate significantly from how Gawyn was initially introduced to readers in The Eye of the World.
Although yet unnamed, Morgase Trakand currently reigns as the queen of Andor in The Wheel of Time. In the books, Morgase is portrayed as a fair ruler and a valuable ally in the Dragon Reborn's mission to vanquish the Dark One. However, during their initial encounter, the powerful channeler was mistaken for an intruder by the palace guards. Despite facing a barrage of probing questions, Rand was ultimately dismissed by Morgase as a mere traveler from the Two Rivers, with the freedom to continue his journey unhindered.
Galad Damodred
Now that Rand and Elayne's initial encounter at the palace has been eliminated from consideration, it is unclear what the show's intentions are for Morgase. As an authoritative figure whose influence significantly contributes to the political aspect of the narrative, Morgase is likely to play a role in their struggle at some point. However, since Andor is located far from the show's setting, Morgase may not appear in the near future. Unless, of course, the show decides to make another modification by having her embark on a journey away from home, possibly to check on her daughter at the White Tower. Alternatively, she could potentially appear through Mat's storyline, especially considering their previous interaction in The Dragon Reborn.
After meeting Elayne and Gawyn, Rand had his first encounter with Galad Damodred, who turned out to be his half-brother. Galad's unwavering righteousness and strict moral code left a negative impression when he reported Rand's accidental intrusion into the palace to the guards. Like Gawyn, Galad reappeared in The Great Hunt when he visited the White Tower to see her. Eventually, he became a pivotal character in the story, joining the Whitecloaks and becoming a hero. However, it should be noted that he didn't always see eye to eye with the other main characters.
Elaida
Elaida's introduction in The Eye of the World had a significant impact on the series. Not only did it introduce Elayne and other Wheel of Time protagonists, but it also brought in a major villain for Jordan's books. Similar to Liandrin, Elaida is a member of the Red Ajah and remains an antagonist throughout the series.
Her role in books like The Great Hunt and The Dragon Reborn was perfectly hinted at in her brief appearance in The Eye of the World. When Rand was captured, Elaida added a level of tension by actively wanting him detained and labeling him as "dangerous." This encounter with Rand before reaching the White Tower became vital to her character development as a villain, creating a pre-existing connection to her true enemy, the Dragon Reborn.
Gareth Byrne
Martyn Tallanvor
Captain-General Gareth Bryne, the esteemed leader of the Andorian military, held the esteemed role of being Morgase's trusted advisor, all while capturing the heart of Siuan Sanche. Introduced in The Eye of the World, Bryne was a beacon of rationality within the confines of the palace, offering invaluable perspectives on Rand and subtly influencing the queen to grant him his freedom. As an unwaveringly loyal soldier to Morgase, Bryne consistently emerged as a steadfast ally to the characters, often found by Siuan's side, but also playing pivotal roles in the journeys of Egwene and other individuals.
The Wheel of Time’s decision to skip Elayne’s story in The Eye of the World has undoubtedly impacted the introduction of yet another side character, Guardsman-Lieutenant Martyn Tallanvor. He is depicted as someone who is secretly in love with the queen herself while fiercely protective of the royal family. As the head of the palace guards, Tallanvor was the one who accompanied Rand to the throne room to meet the queen. Although he was momentarily overshadowed when the focus shifted to the royal family in later stories like The Dragon Reborn, Tallanvor's commitment to keeping Queen Morgase safe brought him back into the spotlight. While The Wheel of Time missed the opportunity to properly introduce him, there is a possibility that he may be reintroduced when one of the characters visits Andor.
